Prisoners escape as bees disrupt court sessions in Abim, Moroto

Court proceedings at Abim Magistrate’s court were thrown into chaos on Tuesday after a swarm of bees invaded the courtroom around midday, causing widespread panic and temporary escapes by detainees.

Simultaneously, another bee attack in South Division, Moroto Municipality, left several people injured and disrupted activities at Campswahili police station and South Division offices.

In Abim, the bees attacked court staff, police officers, prison officers, litigants, remandees, and suspects, forcing everyone to flee for safety. Amid the chaos, 12 remandees and 7 suspects briefly escaped custody but were later re-apprehended and returned to Amita Government Prisons.

In Moroto, the swarm originated after Emmanuel Ekaru climbed a tamarind tree to pick fruit, disturbing a hive. The bees attacked Ekaru, causing him to fall from the tree. The swarm then spread to the surrounding areas, including the Campswahili police station and South Division offices.

South Division LC III chairperson Isaac Lokol recounted that he and Abdullah Angella, the councillor for Campswahili Chini Ward, were in the office when Angella, after stepping out to use the washroom, returned running, followed by bees. This triggered a stampede as everyone scrambled for safety.

Among those injured was Maria Loyolo, an elderly woman seeking information about elderly grants. She and Ekaru were admitted to Moroto regional referral hospital. The bees also attacked suspects at Campswahili police station, prompting their transfer to Moroto Central police station.

Mike Longole, spokesperson for Mt Moroto Regional police, confirmed that the situation was brought under control with the combined efforts of police, Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF), and prison authorities. He expressed regret over the disruptions and commended the swift response of security forces. The escaped remandees and suspects were successfully re-apprehended.

Meanwhile, in Nadunget sub-county, bees have partially occupied the sub-county offices, with a hive located on the roof near the entrance. Despite the risk, the office remains operational, with staff staying indoors during afternoon hours to avoid the insects.

The incident has highlighted the need for local authorities to address the increasing presence of bees in public areas to prevent further disruptions and injuries.